Opposites attract over Foxx

Published: Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at 03:41 PM.

The seeming agreement between North Carolina’s two senators comes at a time when opposing forces in Congress find very little common ground. Indeed, presidential appointments can become protracted battles in the current Washington environment. Perhaps the influence of Burr and Hagan together will expedite the process and suppress the unnecessary bickering that comes with many presidential nominations.

Almost as soon as Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx was introduced as President Obama’s choice to be U.S. Secretary of Transportation, both of North Carolina’s senators weighed in.

And — surprise, surprise — they agree: Foxx is a selection they can support.

For Republican Sen. Richard Burr and Democratic Sen. Kay Hagan, it doesn’t get more bipartisan than that.

“I am thrilled that Anthony Foxx will be nominated to serve as Secretary of Transportation,” Hagan said. “Mayor Foxx has done terrific work for the people of Charlotte, and I know he will be a strong leader at the Department of Transportation. He has a deep understanding of the urgent need to rebuild our national infrastructure, which is critical to maintaining a strong and growing economy. This is great news for North Carolina and our country, and I look forward to a swift confirmation for Anthony.”

Burr also praised Foxx as soon as the appointment became official.

“I am pleased to see the president look to North Carolina to fill this important cabinet position, and I congratulate Mayor Foxx on this honor,” Burr said. “I look forward to introducing Mayor Foxx to my colleagues and working with him as his nomination moves through the Senate.

“I believe he will ably serve North Carolina and our nation as the next Secretary of Transportation.”

The seeming agreement between North Carolina’s two senators comes at a time when opposing forces in Congress find very little common ground. Indeed, presidential appointments can become protracted battles in the current Washington environment. Perhaps the influence of Burr and Hagan together will expedite the process and suppress the unnecessary bickering that comes with many presidential nominations.